Johnny Butten, a native of England who now lives in Nebraska, was named grand champion of the Iowa State Fair Fiddlers’ Contest in his first time competing in the event. Butten considers himself a banjo player first, and his victory was a surprise to him.

A New Champion Emerges

The contest, now in its 101st year, drew 36 musicians across three age divisions. Nineteen contestants were 17 or younger, five competed in the 18-to-49 division, and 12 competed in the 50-and-older division. Butten and Des Moines fiddler Megan Wright advanced to the final round, with Butten ultimately taking the top prize.

Butten has found a sense of community in the Midwest that reminds him of the environment in which he was raised. His English roots also give him a unique connection to the American music he performs. Butten said he has found that much of country and bluegrass music traces some of its musical roots to England and Scotland, with tunes evolving after crossing the Atlantic.

The contest also showcased a new generation of Iowa fiddlers, with more than half of this year’s competitors being 17 or younger. David Bellegante, a 12-time grand champion, said the contest has created a community among musicians who may see one another only once a year.

Butten’s grand championship was not the only honor for his musical group. The William Lawson Band, which includes the winners of the contest’s best guitar and best mandolin performances, performed on Sunday inside Pioneer Hall.

Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.